Penn World Scholars

Karam Alkaissy

Netherlands

Academic Areas of Interest: I intend to major in Chemical Engineering while staying in touch with my interests in the humanities by minoring in International Relations or Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations with a concentration in Arabic. Through my studies at Penn, I hope to learn more about the intersection of engineering and society in the light of 21st-century global issues such as climate change and energy/resource depletion.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I love learning and practicing languages, watching travel blogs on YouTube, going down the rabbit hole of Wikipedia’s most obscure articles, travelling, and being in the company of great friends.
Future Plans: Upon completion of my degree, I hope to draw on my knowledge, connections, and internship and club experiences to become a global leader in the industry I will be most passionate about by then. Currently, the prospect of returning to the Netherlands to develop my expertise in the energy industry sounds appealing. Nevertheless, so does the idea of leveraging my passion for this industry to bring positive and substantial change to the socio-economic and environmental landscape of Iraq: the country where my roots lie.

Mekides Belie

Ethiopia

Academic Areas of Interest:  I am currently undecided on my major as I explore various fields of interest. The areas that have captured my attention are design, architecture, and computer science. These disciplines not only intrigue me but also align with my aptitude and potential career aspirations. In every corner of this vibrant campus, I see the potential to mold my future, and transform my aspirations into reality. The allure of design beckons me with its promise of creativity and innovation, while architecture’s blend of aesthetics and functionality fills me with amazement. And then there’s the ever-evolving world of computer science, where I can harness the power of technology to shape the future.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I love traveling, eager to soak in new experiences and immerse myself in the great outdoors. Whether it’s hiking in majestic landscapes or embarking on culinary adventures, I cherish every moment of discovery. I like to read books, particularly those related to Ethiopian ancient history and the profound teachings of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. These texts connect me to my roots, enriching my understanding of culture and spirituality. My love for photography, design, and drawing allows me to capture the beauty I find in the world and express my creativity. Yet, amidst all these passions, one thing remains constant: my unwavering love for friends and family. The joy of spending time with them, sharing laughter, and creating cherished memories is the most important thing in my life.
Future Plans: As I navigate my way through Penn’s vast array of opportunities, I carry this passion with me, fueling my desire to learn, grow, and contribute to my country Ethiopia as well as the world. With each step, I inch closer to discovering my true calling, driven by the fervor that courses through my being.

Faruk Ecirli

Turkey

Academic Areas of Interest: As a student in the Huntsman Program, I will be working towards a BA in International Studies at the College and a BS in Economics at Wharton. Even though I am not entirely sure, I plan to double concentrate in Business Economics & Public Policy and Finance. My target language for Huntsman is Russian, so I will also be taking lots of classes related to Russian culture and literature.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I have a wide variety of interests and hobbies, including languages, cartography, urban planning, geopolitics, European history, and soccer.
Future Plans: After completing my undergraduate studies at Penn, I plan to work in the private sector in the United States for a few years before returning to my home country, Türkiye.

Amanda Hunt

Chile

Academic Areas of Interest: I am majoring in Biochemistry I am very passionate about science and research. I like biochemistry because it opens up many opportunities in various fields of science. I am also interested in philosophy and might minor in it. It is fascinating to think about how our reality can be understood through different lenses, and how studying philosophy can make us more critical and open. In the future, I would like to combine my passion for philosophy with science and hopefully do meaningful research.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: One of my main interests is children’s rights and many social movements in my home country, Chile. I have and am participating in many organizations that promote the rights of children, especially their right to voice their opinions. I also love reading, writing poetry, and making short films. I feel that through writing and making videos, very beautiful and special feelings, perspectives, or events can be communicated in a special way.
Future Plans: In the future, I would like to pursue a PhD after undergraduate school and to keep on developing my scientific skills, while combining science with philosophy. I also would like to be more involved in social projects back home and work to give back to my community. I would like to have more time to actually implement a project that I have been working on with some friends in Chile to build a parliament to involve young people in policymaking and politics in general.

Hanan Jannoud

Syrian Arab Republic

Academic Areas of Interest: I am very curious about economic theory and its applications in improving our quality of life today. I hope to learn more about related fields such as mathematics, political science, philosophy, etc, to frame a better understanding of economics.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I am strongly committed to community service in education. I founded a non-profit offering free academic programs to underprivileged Syrian students and led multiple other initiatives to support the education of students from conflict zones and ethnic minorities worldwide (including in the MENA region, Hong Kong, and Thailand). In my free time, I like to think and articulate my thoughts through creative writing and debate. I am also active in sports and music.
Future Plans: I plan to use the education I receive at the University of Pennsylvania to advise and advocate for economic policies that improve societies’ quality of life and advance the economies of developed countries. I also hope to contribute to the research being conducted in the field of economics.

Nick Kioko

Kenya

Academic Areas of Interest: Problem-solving in the 21st century requires multidisciplinary expertise. In addition to improving my technical knowledge in areas like renewable energy, infrastructure financing, international financial transactions and international relations, a Wharton education in areas like Finance and Business Economics and Public Policy coupled with a minor in Political Science and Environmental Studies at CAS will help me develop business and leadership skills that will enable me to address economic and social challenges at home and across the globe.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I am in love with the idea of adventure. In high school, I was on every pitch of every sport at least once, though I quickly realized sports were not my forte (I was terrible in all of them). Like everyone else, I found my own niche, primarily in debate and politics. But I didn’t stop looking for adventure, whether it was by accepting nominations to represent my school and country in Round Square International Conferences, giving a TED talk in my second year in high school, leading my house in a folk song and dance performance at the inter-house Gala night competitions in 2019, or taking a 3-year gap year after high school to explore working with different organisations across Africa before enrolling into college (KenSAP has been my greatest experience so far!!!). I love traveling, cooking, listening to worship music, watching and reading politics and singing to myself behind closed doors just because I enjoy making joyful noises.
Future Plans: Career wise, I plan to go into investment banking or consulting (I am still deciding between the two). But as part of my personal endeavours, I plan to start and run a diverse network of companies and businesses operating primarily in the vast African continent but with the main purpose of connecting Africa to the world. I also plan to go into politics with the main aim of liberating Africa economically and hope to use the global networks I will have formed over time to accomplish this.

Ashwin Laksumanage

Sri Lanka

Academic Areas of Interest: I plan to major in Philosophy and Economics in the College of Arts and Sciences. As for interests, if I was able to cheat I’d say I’m Interested in the Liberal Arts so I’m able to cover everything. But if I’m being more specific I’m interested in Philosophy, Economics, Sociology, Physics, Linguistics, Statistics, Religious Studies, Art History and Classics.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I love comedy! I do stand up whenever I can and am a member of Without A Net, Penn’s Improv Comedy Troupe. I enjoy debate, reading political literature from across the globe, and keeping up with world affairs so I can be politically involved on campus. I also like TTRPGs and finding very niche music. I’m trying to explore Philadelphia more!
Future Plans: I am drawn towards public policy based work. After undergrad I want to go to grad school and then work towards uplifting and improving the lives of people across the globe as well as in my home country of Sri Lanka through policy. I also potentially see myself working in academia.

Mariana Lanuza

Nicaragua

Academic Areas of Interest: I am in the Huntsman Program studying business and international studies with a Portuguese target language. I am interested in gaining a deeper understanding of business and economics, developing strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, and leadership skills to implement policies effectively.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I have been playing the piano and dancing ballet since I was five years old. I enjoy playing classical music, ballet pieces, and Bossa Nova. I have given piano recitals and danced the main role in a ballet presentation at the Nicaraguan National Theater. I love learning languages and speak French, Spanish, English and Portuguese. The languages have acted as a channel to explore other countries’ cultures, read their literature, magazines, and newspapers online, and get to know some of the local people. I have debated for many years in regional conferences, such as DALE and AASCA, as well as in international conferences such as HACIA Democracy and MUN. I was also a member of DALE’s Board, a national debate organization.
Future Plans: The Huntsman program provides in-depth learning and leadership skills that would help me become an agent of change. Ultimately, I would like to dedicate my career to serving in government, possibly in Nicaragua under a democratic government or with a multilateral organization like the Inter-American Development Bank or the World Bank.

Claire Amythess Moraña

Philippines

Academic Areas of Interest: I have always been interested in how STEM and the Humanities interact with each other and how their intersections are applied practically. I plan to explore the academic areas of Economics and its various fields, as well as Data Science and Mathematics.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: Some of my involvements are in civic engagement and climate action. I enjoy exploring new places and eating good food. In my free time, I binge-watch TV series, listen to music, and read. I also love doing karaoke.
Future plans: Although the future is still uncertain, I want to travel and use the skills and experience I gained during my time at Penn to make a positive impact to the Philippines and to the world.

Elliot Ross-Dick

Trinidad and Tobago

Academic Areas of Interest: I have always loved the theoretical side of Math and Physics, so I am hoping to major in Mathematics in the College of Arts and Sciences. However, I have growing interests in the social impact the Arts on society. I hope to do research in any of these areas.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I enjoy choreography and exploring contemporary performance art. Also, I am really passionate about social justice issues, especially gender-based violence and discrimination and I am excited to continue learning about it. I love jazz, playing the drums and trumpet, and music production. But most importantly, I love playing video games and tennis from time to time.
Future Plans: There are a range of possibilities that interest me. For instance, I plan to do a master’s degree in one of my prospective academic fields and use my basis in research to identify a certain issue or problem that I will work on. I also plan to create and mount a few performances of my own that create awareness for inequity in society. Essentially, although my path is not definite, I plan to continue my exploring my passions through research.

Cristobal Ruiz

Mexico

Academic Areas of Interest: I am planning to study Finance and Management in the Wharton School of Business, and I would also like to do a minor in Consumer Psychology.
Personal interests and hobbies: Reading classic books, going hiking with my friends, going to the gym, checking out new restaurants, and learning new languages.
Future plans: Even though I don’t know what I want to study, I’m certain that I want to be able to have an impact in my community through my work, whether that’s through consulting or something else.

Yuliya Solyanyk

Ukraine

Academic Areas of Interest: I’m a big math enthusiast, and I’m excited to dive deeper into its applications here at Penn. I also enjoy creative writing, economics, and computer science.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: For over 15 years, dance has been my escape. I grew up with the DCF dance team in Uzhhorod, where I danced in styles like contemporary, jazz, lyrical, ballroom, hip-hop, and folk and competed at various festivals internationally. Later, at Phillips Academy in MA, I joined a jazz team and choreographed a piece for the modern ballet group on campus. At Penn, you can find me performing with Arts House Dance Company!
Future Plans: I hope to enhance my math knowledge and branch out in some other areas of the subject with a mission of later on using the acquired knowledge back in Ukraine and contributing to the effort of rebuilding the post-war country.

Tanay Tandon

Cyprus

Academic Areas of Interest:
Formally – Computer Science and Psychology.
Informally – Philosophy, Finance, Mathematics, and more.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: Love photography/videography, playing the guitar, getting out of my comfort zone, reading, debating, and eating good food.
Future Plans: I aspire to use Penn’s interdisciplinary education to explore the intersection of technology and society. While I am unsure of which technological specialty I will follow, I know it will be one that maximizes my engagement and contribution to the communities I belong to.

Mikal Tesfamariam

Australia

Academic Areas of Interest:  I have an eclectic course load. I’m studying Physics and Economics as well as French and Arabic.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I often read the Russian authors, and I’m a great admirer of Dostoevsky. I’m a classical violinist, and I play tennis. I value the study of history, and I drink an absurd amount of tea.
Future Plans: I am driven, primarily, by curiosity but also a pursuit to serve in the interest of humanity by maximising my utility in whichever field I find myself.

Opal Trim

Saint Lucia

Academic Areas of Interest: Chemistry is and has always been my favorite subject but I’m not entirely sure what area I want to focus on. There are so many fields to choose from – Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering – which all sound incredibly exciting in their own ways.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I have a deep love for community service and volunteering. Besides that I like to spend my free time dancing, laughing with my friends and reading and watching anything fantasy and sci-fi.
Future Plans: I have dreamt about going into research for years now. I’d like to work in the cancer field and hopefully help develop a new drug that can be used to help and cure people suffering from cancer.

Mário Valek

Slovakia

Academic Areas of Interest: Currently I am the most interested in Public Policy – specifically the interplay between the economic and legal areas of policymaking. Nevertheless, I am open to exploring new areas of study in the future.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I enjoy debating and, in general, mediating heated conversations and challenging other people’s opinions and values. I love admiring the perfection in art, especially in older paintings, but I also enjoy finding meaning in postmodern art as well. Over the break, I like to cook for my friends, especially after returning home from a long day of swimming in the lake, river, or sea. However, my absolute favorite pastime is writing, whether it involves crafting lengthy personal paragraphs, creating dynamic slam poetry, or simply reading the works of others.
Future Plans: I’d like to become the future Minister of Education in Slovakia. Teaching fascinates me and diving deep into ways how to improve education is my currently biggest passion. Nevertheless, I also want to stay open to new possibilities and that’s why I am currently learning about the American History of Law and the African Modern History.

Theertha Vannemreddy

Kenya, Tanzania, India

Academic Areas of Interest: I am planning on majoring in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics. I have always been interested in the complexities of tech within the business management field.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I love playing badminton and going to Pottruck to explore new fitness methods. I cannot wait to represent Penn in badminton for the next 4 years! Besides sports, I have always been keen on civic engagement and Model UN. At Penn I want to continue exploring how I can stay in touch with the community in Philly.
Future Plans: I have always seen myself going into leadership and I strongly believe in sustainable urbanization and modernization. Hence, I plan to pursue an MBA after my bachelor’s degree to learn management and economics within the STEM field to better understand the impacts on technology in our face-paced world and to innovate sustainably to ease human lives. I want to make technology more accessible to people regardless of their socioeconomic, racial, and geographical backgrounds.

Thakia Waksanga

Rwanda

Academic Areas of Interest: What are the ethics of the rise in emergence of artificial intelligence? Are we headed to a better destination with AI spearheading all our endeavors or is it a self-destruct button for all of us? What are the implications of AI on African lives? Should both large and startup companies prioritize AI technology? As a computer science major in the school of engineering .I want to use technology to build empathy and inclusion with a concentration in Artificial intelligence and machine learning. I hope to be equipped with skills in programming that I can use to code for a world that celebrates diversity.
Personal Interests and Hobbies: I love nature and am constantly in awe of its beauty. I find solace in nature, especially when I take a walk to clear my mind. I am also interested in the ethics engineers use to design different projects, and I plan on doing research about the taxonomy of data privacy.
Future Plans: I envision myself working in a technology based company either as a software engineer or just a developer in general. I also want to initiate an automatic irrigation project using moisture sensors in Rwanda directly after my graduation from Penn, and hopefully in the future start my own tech company in Africa.

Felipe Carvalho

Brazil

Academic Areas of Interest: “I intend to study Political Science and Economics, learning even more about international politics and discovering how political elements, such as the adoption of public policies or civic education, directly impact the economic development of different regions worldwide.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Overall, I am a tremendous enthusiast of Model UN, debates, and anything that involves diplomacy, public speaking, or leadership. I regularly work in Instituto Diplomun, the company I created that became the organizer of the largest MUN in Latin America and the most prominent Brazilian institution in young people’s public speaking and leadership education. Furthermore, I admire different forms of art, so it is not uncommon to find myself contemplating a work by Van Gogh, listening to music by Arctic Monkeys, discussing the ending of Fight Club with my friends, or writing poetry about my feelings.”
Future Plans: “I plan to use the education and network that I will develop at the University of Pennsylvania to continue promoting political education measures, especially in the Latin American region. I want to combine policymaking with international economic analysis to create education measures that increase global young people’s civic awareness, enhance their public speaking and leadership skills, and enable them to reduce socioeconomic and educational disparities.”

Siobhan Halm-Quagrainie

Ghana

Academic Areas of Interest: “I have got a wide range of interests – Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Finance, Economics and Real Estate.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Reading autobiographies and memoirs, magazines, newspapers (anything readable); binge-watching YouTube videos. I also research into blockchain and the financial markets occasionally.”
Future Plans: “I look forward to working with an investment bank of hedge fund. I also want to establish an organization that provides education in financial literacy and consulting in personal finances, starting with my home country, Ghana and subsequently, Africa.”

Hannah Hayman

United Kingdom

Academic Areas of Interest: “I am in the School of Nursing and hope to either specialize in midwifery or pediatrics. I have also started learning Spanish, which is already becoming my favorite language.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Before I came to Penn, I was involved in a variety of volunteering initiatives that helped multiple charities within my local community. I worked closely with Mencap charity, which contribute to improving the quality of life for people with a learning disability. I hope to continue volunteering while at Penn because I am passionate about helping those in need and raising awareness of issues that many people are uneducated about. I was also a part of my local netball club, the Cynon Comets. My hobbies include reading, watching marvel movies, hanging out with friends and most importantly playing exploding kittens (I recently started playing this game and it is the best!).”
Future Plans: “I would like to travel abroad and work with organizations that help undeveloped countries with antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal care. After graduation, I see myself working in either Europe or the US because I am interested in working within hospitals that focus on fetal medicine as I am passionate about research. As well as this, I would hope to work within labor and delivery or the NICU unit.”

Agustina Hufschmid

Argentina

Academic areas of interest: “They’re too many — literature, artificial intelligence, cognitive science, history, and international policies. I plan on majoring in Science, Technology and Society in the College of Arts and Sciences.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “I enjoy learning new languages; one of my goals is to be able to speak up to 5 languages. I also love reading and writing, the latter being one of my biggest passions. My other hobbies include drawing, public speaking, and watching old movies.”
Future plans: “I see myself working in different fields, either in research studying the relation between cognitive science and artificial intelligence, or in diplomacy developing policies around the use of technology for social good.”

Matthew Jacobs

South Africa

Academic Areas of Interest: “Although still somewhat undecided on my final Wharton concentration, I have a deep passion for both behavioral economics and legal studies and ethics. I have always been drawn to the more human element of business and I am sure this is an area I will be inclined to major in. Outside of this, I have a deep interest in philosophy (primarily Ancient Greek) and will be working towards gaining a minor in this field.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Self-improvement guru. I love journaling, experimenting with morning and evening habit routines, listening to podcasts and reading. I am also a very active person and love going on early morning runs down Locust Walks, visiting Pottruck for a lifting session in the afternoon and joining the Penn Rugby team for practice in the evenings.”
Future Plans: “Without a doubt, my future plans include returning back home to my beautiful country, South Africa. The educational outreach programs I created in the rural areas of Kwa-Zulu Natal exposed me to the depth of suffering experienced on a day-to-day basis. Although I am not entirely sure of my final business path, I know I will take the skills and connections I have made over my time at Penn and Wharton back home with me to Africa and make the large-scale impact my country desperately needs.”

Yasmine Kettani

Morocco

Academic Areas of Interest: “I am planning to concentrate in Business, Energy, Environment, and Sustainability with a minor in environmental studies or data science. Overall, I would say that I am passionate about the current transitions that our world is going through – specifically, environmental and digital – and about the future of our societies.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Philosophy, making music and singing, fiction, and photography.”
Future Plans: “After completing my bachelor’s degree, I would like to pursue a masters in development science. My ambition would be to build and lead a company whose goal would be to implement sustainable energy in developing countries. I hope to be a part of the profound changes that our societies are currently undergoing and to use that to contribute to make a positive impact on populations.”

Eleftherios Lazarinis

Greece

Academic Areas of Interest: “I am planning to major in computer science with a special interest in artificial intelligence and machine learning. I also like entrepreneurship and management, so I plan to minor in engineering entrepreneurship.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Civic engagement, traveling, cycling, socializing.”
Future Plans: “After graduating from Penn I plan to do a master’s degree in an AI related field and get an MBA before entering the market. I hope that I will still be able to explore my passions in every way, connect with people and help those around me.”

Filip Manjevic

Sweden

Academic Areas of Interest: “I am interested in exploring different subjects such as economics, sustainability, biology, entrepreneurship and computer science.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “In my spare time I mostly like to engage in physical activity. My favorite sports are swimming and running. Besides that I also enjoy exploring different cultures, try new things, civic engagement and listening to music.”
Future Plans: “Although I am not sure of what I want to do in the future, I would like to engage in innovation in sustainability and assist companies transform their industries to be more climate neutral.”

Thu Nguyen

Vietnam

Academic Areas of Interest: “I am planning to major in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Environmental and Sustainability Management. I am also thinking of double-majoring with PPE (Philosophy, Politics and Economics).”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “I love sustainability, nature, advocacy, community service and arts in general. Besides, I enjoy music of any kind, Broadway musicals, going on boba and coffee runs with my friends, and anything outdoors.”
Future Plans: “I deeply care about sustainable development and human well-being; thus, I hope to work at the intersection of policy, human development and sustainability. After graduation, I will travel around to different communities, using the tools and knowledge from Penn to foster positive societal changes.”

Pion Pareyio

Kenya

Academic Areas of Interest: “I have a wide range of interests in Economics, Neuroscience, Political science, History and Public Health.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Watching and playing sports, watching documentaries, reading books or newspapers, debating and advocacy.”
Future Plans: “I would like to further my education and use it to identify and pursue a mission to make the world a better place and to become a researcher, writer and expert in my field of study.”

Elena Paz

Honduras

Academic Areas of Interest: “I love to talk about our global economy as well as investing on the stock market and any other financial investments. I have always been interested on how investments have been changing, or globalizing, over the past years. Also, debating on politics is something I truly enjoy.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “I enjoy weightlifting and everything related to the fitness industry. I love animals and enjoy petting them as well as volunteering on shelters.”
Future Plans: “I plan to start my own research on economic disadvantages third world countries in Latin America possess. In the future, I would like to intern at a top company at Wall Street and acquire experience on what I truly enjoy . Eventually, I plan to return to my home-country Honduras, and continue my professional pursuits there.”

Ali Saber

Iraq/Tanzania

Academic Areas of Interest: “Molecular and Cell Biology with a focus on genes and gene editing techniques. The genetics field is a new field that deals with genes and gene editing.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “I enjoy listening to music and I listen to it a lot! I also find peace in the time I spend doing photography and photo editing. My favorite sports are table tennis and soccer. I also enjoy doing small projects with Arduino and coding.”
Future Plans: “Currently, I am doing the VMLS (Vagelos Molecular and Life Sciences) program which will help me to direct me into a research based path. In this program, I will be focusing on Biology/Molecular Biology in order to be able to get closer into the genetics field. This should help me get a career as a researcher in a lab.”

Rihem Sassi

Tunisia

Academic Areas of Interest: “I’m planning on pursuing a double concentration in Finance & Business economics and Public policy at the Wharton School of Business. I’m also considering minoring in computer science.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “So many! I’m passionate about women’s rights and civic engagement. Thus, I’m interested in joining the board of Wharton Women and putting forth ideas on how to support women in Business. I also love theater, and I’m excited to audition for the play “dryland” this fall. I also love coffee and hanging out with friends.”
Future Plans: “In the coming years, I plan on taking advantage of the different study-abroad opportunities at Penn. I aspire to deepen my world view even more and be a global citizen. After completing my Bachelor degree at Penn, I’m considering pursuing a Masters degree in Business Administration (MBA). Career wise, I can see myself working for an international consulting firm, and eventually launching my own business in Tunisia.”

Maria Guadalupe Solaeche

Paraguay

Academic Areas of Interest: “I’m planning to study Mathematical Economics in the College with a minor in Data Science.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Two of my main passions are volleyball and math; I have competed in both of them since I’m 10 years old. On the other hand, I also enjoy spending some time volunteering in different NGOs. Additionally, I like reading non-fiction books, doing exercise, and going out with my friends.”
Future Plans: “In the future I hope to use my job as a way to improve my country’s situation. Now my dream is to become a development economist and research how to solve poverty in Paraguay and Latin America. Still, I am open to exploring other possibilities and areas but always keeping in mind my purpose of helping others.”

Alima Tuyakayeva

Kazakhstan

Academic Areas of Interest: “Bachelor of Science in Economics at Wharton School of Business. Planning to concentrate in Marketing & Finance. Passionate about marketing, its interdisciplinary nature (how it balances both creativity and analytics) and marketing’s importance in promotion of social projects. As a part of the Joseph Wharton Scholars program, I am also interested in research in neuroscience and its application in business.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Taking photographs and videos to capture the memories. Exploring the world – learning something new, meeting new people, visiting interesting places. Having an active lifestyle and hiking.”
Future Plans: “The next four years at Penn will definitely change me, my life perception and future plans, which is why I remain open-minded. But I believe in application of business knowledge in development of social projects, and I am interested in working in business in tech, digital & education. I also hope to use the knowledge I will gain here to improve the quality of education back in my home country, Kazakhstan.”

Naseebullah Andar

Afghanistan

Academic Areas of Interest: “I am planning to be a Pre-Med Economics major with a minor in Philosophy. I have been fascinated by the mutual influences of Science on the economic landscape of our society. Also, realizing that Science is underpinned with philosophical underpinnings without which the accuracy of Science as a truth standard is incalculable, I plan to integrate the understanding of Science, philosophy, and economics to discover the hidden actualities of our reality.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Memorizing random numbers, names, facts, etc. Doing poetry across languages. Reading books, articles, magazines, and anything readable. Writing books, and compiling my thoughts. Playing cricket (I am good at it). Playing chess (I am just about average). Watching movies – DC Comics (No Marvel!). Discussing ideas.”
Future Plans: “I plan to utilize the education I would receive and the Alumni Network I would develop at the UPenn to actively unify the divisions from which humanity suffers. Also, believing that Medical, Scientific, Economic, and Philosophical advances can make the world a slightly better place, I will strive to contribute to the intellectual landscape by attempting to unravel the mysteries around and above us.”

Majd Ayyad

Palestine

Academic areas of interest: “Architecture, sustainable design, bioengineering, economics, languages, photography, and fine arts.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “Civic engagement, Photography, baking desserts, learning new languages, badminton.”
Future plans: “After completing my undergraduate degree at Penn, I would like to pursue a master’s degree in sustainable design and enhance the research and design sector in my country. I see myself working in Academia to empower young women to get involved in research and innovative practices.”

Fadel Batal

Syria

Academic areas of interest: “I am planning to major in Biomedical Engineering with a concentration in cell and tissue engineering on a pre-med track. I am also interested in Computer Science, and Political science.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “In my free time, I enjoy playing sports like Basketball, Soccer, and Ping Pong. I am also into tutoring, learning foreign languages, exploring different cultures, civic engagement, and listening to music.”
Future plans: “I am currently planning to participate in chemical and biomedical research, especially in nanomedicine research. Honestly, I am not sure what my dream career is, but I hope to pursue it in the medical field either as a neurosurgeon or as a research Scientist in Biotechnology.”

Omar Ben Kaddour

Tunisia

Academic areas of interest: “They’re all over the place–economics, public policy, legal studies, statistics, and computer science.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “Advocacy and social justice; theater; music; watching classics, reading theory; cooking; thrift shopping.”
Future plans: “After graduating from Penn, I want to pursue a dual JD/MBA program and eventually work on economic development in the MENA region.”

Ariana Bedoya Mansilla

Bolivia

Academic areas of interest: “I am a member of the dual-degree Huntsman Program, majoring in Business at Wharton and International Studies at the College of Arts and Sciences. My two target languages are Portuguese and French. Some of my additional academic interests are reading and learning history.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “I have competitively practiced horse-back riding and showjumping for over ten years. In high-school I was in the track-and-field varsity team, and still continue to run and work-out on a daily basis. My hobbies include watching great movies or documentaries, advising students on the college application process, and going out with friends or family.”
Future plans: “I plan to study abroad in Portugal or France for a semester. In the future, I would like to work for a consulting or insurance company. Eventually, I plan to return to my home-country Bolivia, and continue my professional pursuits there.”

Andrea Espósito-Rubio

Panama

Academic areas of interest: “I’m planning to pursue a double major in Economics and Political Science with a minor in Law and Society on the Pre-Law Track in the College of Arts and Sciences.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “I’m passionate about civic engagement, and volunteer work. I also enjoy learning languages, brewing and trying different blends of coffee, going on coffee runs, reading, debating British Parliamentary style, organizing debate tournaments, and listening to Christmas music.”
Future plans: “I see myself working in the Economic field after my undergraduate studies at Penn before pursuing Law School both in the United States and in Panama. I plan to advocate for equal access to quality education for Latin American Women, and to raise awareness on the importance of civic engagement and political change and involvement.”

Ondrej Gonzor

Czech Republic

Academic areas of interest: “I have always been interested in the intersection of business and technologies therefore I am majoring in Computer Science and I plan to get a minor in economics or entrepreneurship for engineers.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “I love to explore new places, taste new food and learn new things. In my free time, I exercise, take care of my mango trees, or fly gliders.”
Future plans: “I plan to test the new knowledge in real life by building projects with people I will meet here at Penn. After graduation, I would like to travel the world and use my skills to help communities to grow and eventually I want to return to the Czech Republic where I hope I will contribute to positive changes in our society.”

Manya Gupta

India

Academic areas of interest: “I’m interested in global health, biology, economics, anthropology, and international development!”
Personal interests and hobbies: “I really enjoy reading (contemporary fiction and memoir), spending time with my younger sister, and going to random events in Philadelphia. I’m also very involved with debate.”
Future plans: “I care deeply about global health, poverty alleviation, biosecurity, and gender justice, especially in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. In the future, I see myself working at the intersection of health and development, and will continue exploring what the specific role might look like.”

Lachlan Heywood

Australia

Academic areas of interest: “I currently intend to pursue a double major in Economics and Physics. Beyond that, I am also interested in political science, international relations and entrepreneurship.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “I’m interested in debating, youth advocacy, community service and social impact, particularly as it relates to business. I also enjoy playing and watching basketball, listening to music, reading, travelling and exploring new restaurants.”
Future plans: “Whilst I am unsure of where my professional life may lead, I hope to pursue a career in business, hopefully in an organisation that utilizes my interest in physics. Above all else, I hope to work for an organisation which employs the levers of business to enact social change.”

Reyhan Jamalova

Azerbaijan

Academic areas of interest: “I am planning to major in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Data Science and minors in Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Entrepreneurship.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “I am really interested in fields like Renewable Energy, Social Entrepreneurship, Sustainability, Data Analysis, and Psychology, and I enjoy getting involved in community service, tutoring, reading, drawing, watching mystery/sci-fi movies, and solving Rubik’s cube.”
Future plans: “After successfully completing my undergraduate studies, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in Data Science to strengthen my expertise in the field while working on Rainergy part-time. After I complete my studies, I plan to bring my experiences and knowledge back to my country and use them for the good of my community and the development of my country.
“Overall, I want to be one of the bests in the field I will be working in, a thoughtful and one of the most powerful leaders who is changing our world into a better place, and a humanitarian who thrives a positive impact on people’s lives.”

Margarita Mnatsakanyan

Armenia

Academic areas of interest: “I’m pursuing a career in Business Economics and Public Policy at Wharton School of Business. Being passionate about change, I want to examine pressing global issues while helping the world take a step towards a more sustainable and peaceful future.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “I love baking traditional desserts from all over the world, biking, and skiing in the mountains.”
Future plans: “Even though I am uncertain about what the future holds, I am envisioning a career in global politics.”

Uchi Murima

Kenya

Academic areas of interest: “I’m interested in exploring cognitive science, economics, artificial intelligence, global health and mathematics.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “I enjoy getting involved in social impact activities such as community service and women empowerment initiatives. I also love travelling, reading, and listening to podcasts. I also recently got into photography.”
Future plans: “Upon completion of my undergraduate studies, I hope to proceed to graduate school and study public policy. I hope that my Penn education and beyond will equip me with more knowledge that will put me in a better position to help make substantial change in the healthcare system in my home country and Africa at large upon my return.”

Dea Rrozhani

Albania

Academic areas of interest: “I plan on majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Electrical Engineering at the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. I am also very interested in Entrepreneurship.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “I love programming, building robots, playing the piano, reading classic literature, learning new languages and travelling!”
Future plans: “My dream is to work on software and robots that incite social change all around the world.”

Alejandra Soria Andrade

Ecuador

Academic Areas of Interests: “I am part of the Huntsman Program in Business and International Studies, with Portuguese as my target language, for the next four years at the Wharton School and the College of Arts & Sciences essentially because I am really interested in economics, public policy, business and international affairs.”
Personal Interests and Hobbies: “Traveling, language learning, outdoor activities, watching movies, meeting new people, getting to know cultures from around the world, getting out of my comfort zone, coffee, braiding, and learning about indigenous civilizations.”
Future Plans: “I hope to become an agent of change for my country to help solve the economic problems, but I also hope to become a global citizen who is constantly involved in leadership engagements and inclusive initiatives, at the same time of travelling all over the world.”

Michał Wyrębkowski

Poland

Academic areas of interest: “I currently intend to major in Economics. My other interests include: Energy Policy, Economic History, Political Science, Russian and Eastern European Studies as well as French Studies.”
Personal interests and hobbies: “Environmental activism; debating and Model UN; youth engagement; science-fiction literature; poetry of Russian and French singer-songwriters; film classics; philosophy of dialogue; baking pastries and playing video games.”
Future plans: “I intend to work on the pathways of the green energy transition, as I consider energy the most fundamental element of human civilization, one so omnipresent that often overlooked. I would like to work on that in academia through economic research, in the field of business by fostering innovation in the field, and one day in the public policy itself, helping Poland to phase out coal.”

Dina Zhanybekova

Kazakhstan

Academic areas of interest: “Cinema and Media Studies, Political Science (College of Arts and Sciences)”
Personal interests and hobbies: “Making movies, playing the piano, dancing, singing, debating, playing chess, and swimming.”
Future plans: “Right now, I anticipate working in the film industry either as a director or an actress. In my opinion, people from the media and entertainment carry a huge responsibility to the audience. Therefore, I find it necessary to stay knowledgeable about the issues that are present in society and use my voice sensibly. In the long future, I’d like to get involved in politics more because I believe that the key to solving socio-economic problems in a country lies in its governmental policies.”

Mustafa Bayramli

Azerbaijan

Academic areas of interest: I will be spending my next 4 years studying International Relations and Economics as part of the Huntsman Program at Penn.
Personal interests and hobbies: Debating, Data Analysis, Personal Finance, Traveling, Basketball, Mixed Martial Arts, Environmental Advocacy
Future plans: After the completion of my undergraduate studies at Penn, I would like to pursue a Master’s degree in Economics/Business Administration for a much deeper understanding of the field and, eventually, make a big positive impact on the economic sector of my home country, Azerbaijan.

Diane Byukusenge

Rwanda

Academic areas of interest: I am currently majoring in nursing. I am also planning on taking a minor in global health. I love learning about different social factors that affect health.
Personal interests and hobbies: I am interested in exploring different cultures and languages. I also love reading, tutoring and jogging.
Future plans: I am planning on participating in various global health research, exploring different social, cultural and political factors that affect health. I also want to participate in different community services around campus.

Mohamed Elnasir Eltigani Osman Abaker

Sudan

Academic areas of interest: I am studying at the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. I am planning to major in computer science. I am also interested in Science, Technology, and Society.
Personal interests and hobbies: Soccer, gaming, programming, Robotics, learning about different languages, and meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Future plans: I hope to improve the Healthcare system in Sudan by introducing machine learning techniques in diagnosing, epidemic prediction, and more.

Valeria Germanova

Bulgaria

Academic areas of interest: Business – especially Marketing & Business Analytics (these are my intended concentrations at the moment)
Personal interests and hobbies: I love playing tennis, taking photos, reading non-fiction books, listening to good music, and spending time in nature.
Future plans: While I’m still not sure what my dream career path is, I hope I’ll be able to take full advantage of the various educational (and extracurricular) opportunities at Penn. To be honest, I see myself as a bright business lady in a buzzing marketing company, working on different and exciting projects, collaborating with a motivated team, and making a positive impact on the community, in one way or another.

Luke Gooding

Trinidad & Tobago

Academic areas of interest: I have always been fascinated by the natural sciences, particularly Chemistry, yet it has always irked me that I am always learning ‘what’ to think, not ‘how’ to think. For this reason, I am drawn to Philosophy, at first as a hobby, but now as a critical piece of my future.
Personal interests and hobbies: My Trini nature loves a good ‘lime’ and some quality music, whether it comes from my family band or my headphones on full blast. I am currently a teacher, podcaster, videographer, and social media marketer.
Future plans: Reformation of Trinidad and Tobago’s education system is a high priority for me, as I think we need to focus on producing more independent and critical thinkers. I am yet to flesh out a title for my future career but I see myself as a sociopolitical commentator or a teacher.

Grace Holden

United Kingdom

Academic areas of interest: I’m really interested in exploring International Relations, Sociology, Mathematics and French at Penn.
Personal interests and hobbies: I’m interested in activism and social justice. I also like sewing and up-cycling clothes, cooking, reading and discovering new places to eat in my home town, Birmingham. I also love music and musical theatre.
Future plans: I would love to pursue graduate education and continue learning for as long as possible. It’s hard to say what career I envision myself in, however I know I am interested in working for non-profit organisations. I would love to work to improve women’s access to education all over the world.

Ahmed Laban

Egypt

Academic areas of interest: Economics, Political Science, Computer Science
Personal interests and hobbies: Bodybuilding, debating, politics, cycling, stocks
Future plans: I envision myself working in economics, computer science, or maybe in a field that combines both of these things (financial engineering). I aspire to eventually start my own business. As for my non-professional plans, I wish to positively impact my community and bring about much needed social and political change. I believe it is my responsibility as a global citizen–and as a human being–to actively call for and pave the path for a better world: one that is free of war and misery, one in which every person is treated equally and justly and not on the basis of race, sex, nationality, or religion.

Carolina Yuka Nakada

Brazil/Japan

Academic areas of interest: I am currently majoring in Mechanical Engineering with a Robotics concentration. I am also very passionate about education and foreign cultures!
Personal interests and hobbies: Learning foreign languages and cultures; playing video games; reading; playing chess; getting involved in community service; robotics; women empowerment.
Future plans: I intend to participate in robotics research to learn how technology can improve education quality and promote equality of opportunities in my home country.

Anh Ngo

Vietnam

Academic areas of interest: I intend to double major in Economics and Computer Science. Other than these two areas, I am also excited about entrepreneurship, public policy, education and auditing.
Personal interests and hobbies: I am a semi-professional baker who is passionate about food science and nutrition. I have also played the violin for 10 years and I have a black belt in Karate.
Future plans: I am currently envisioning a career in business; I have a particular interest in social entrepreneurship, but I am still open to changes.

Leah Yousef Tesfa

Ethiopia/Zimbabwe

Academic areas of interest: I’m pursuing a career in mechanical engineering in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Having a love for innovation; a passion for physics and a desire to make a direct impact on the society around me, I’m very excited to pursue a degree that encompasses all my interests!
Personal interests and hobbies: During my free time I enjoy playing sports like tennis and swimming, and taking part in my church’s Praise and Worship Team.
Future plans: With the constant power shortages in my country, I’m excited to use my Penn Engineering education to make a difference in my home country, Zimbabwe, by enhancing the energy sector. Coming from a country where there are very few women in STEM, yet alone engineering, I also strive to be a role model and a source of inspiration to fellow Zimbabwean women aspiring to pursue this amazing field.

Josias Zongo

Burkina Faso/Ghana

Academic areas of interest: I’m currently intending to major in Economics. My other interests include Political Science, International Relations, Marketing, Business Analytics, French Studies, Biology, and Neuroscience.
Personal interests and hobbies: Leadership & Advocacy, entrepreneurship, long-distance running, environmental activism, model UN, public speaking, graphic design, photography, videography, singing, hanging out with my friends, and watching Netflix.
Future plans: Among many other things, I see myself working toward the alleviation of absolute poverty and the overall socio-economic development of Burkina Faso, Ghana, and other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa through entrepreneurship, science, and/or politics.

Farah Abdelrahim

Egypt

Degree and major area of study: Huntsman Program – BS in Economics from Wharton with concentrations in Finance and Management and BA in International Studies from the College with an International Studies major and a French minor
What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars? I love Penn for the incredible and extensive opportunities it has given me to pursue my various interests, both academic and extracurricular, surrounded by people who are as ambitious and high spirited as I am. Being part of Penn World Scholars has been an invaluable addition to my Penn experience, since it has connected me to a community of likeminded international students with similar experiences to myself but extremely diverse backgrounds and perspectives which has only added to an already excellent Penn experience.
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share? Director of Finance of the Wharton Undergraduate AgriBusiness Club; Treasurer of the Penn Egyptian Society; Deputy Director of Intercol (Penn’s intercollegiate Model UN team) within Penn’s International Affairs Association; Deputy Director of Special Events within Penn’s International Affairs Association; Campus Representative of Rent the Runway
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn? I’m working in Investment Banking back home in Egypt while pursuing my passion for fashion design on the side

Tathagat Bhatia

India

Degree and major area of study: BA in Science, Technology and Society; Russian Studies minor
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share? (Campus Involvement) Radical South Asian Collective, Penn LGBT Center, Penn Language Center, Wolf Humanities Center, Center for the Advanced Study of India; (Achievement) Gates Cambridge Scholar
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn? I will be starting my MPhil in History and Philosophy of Science and Medicine at the University of Cambridge in the fall [of 2021].

Beverlye Gedeon

Haiti

Academic areas of interest: Economics; Capital Markets; Business/ Entrepreneurship; Public Policy; Research; Mathematics; International Development  
Activities and interests: Minority Advocacy; Women Empowerment; Caribbean, African & African-American Cultures; Foreign languages; Community Service
Future plans: I look forward to leveraging all my professional and personal experiences to return to my home country and work closely with the government to make the business environment more efficient. Hopefully, these contributions will boost economic growth.

Greis Kapexhiu

Albania

Academic areas of interest: Natural Sciences, Public Health, Economics, Business, Geopolitics, Foreign Languages.
Activities and interests: Entrepreneurship, volunteering, counseling, skiing, music, Russian literature.
Future plans: I aspire to dedicate my career to significantly improving the global healthcare system for all the citizens in this world. I believe that we all have the right to live a healthy and happy life with the people we love and I want to be that somebody who people will remember for being devoted to making the world a better place.

Meri Kavtelishvili

Georgia

Degree and Major Area of Study: BSE, Computer and Information Science
Activities and interests: Social activism, volunteering, research, entrepreneurship
Future plans: I plan to become a physicist, and along with doing research, I will devote my time and energy to empowering girls and women to pursue science fields.

Alexander Kempf

France

Degree and major area of study: Wharton B.S.E (Concentration: Management), SEAS B.A.S (Major: Computer Science)
What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars? PWS provided great (and fun!) opportunities to meet people with all kinds of different backgrounds from all around the world. While everyone’s background was different, all having initially been foreign to our place of study definitely provided for a shared bonding experience.
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn? Funnily enough, I still haven’t managed to figure out what exactly it is that I want to do in life – and my interests are still rather similar to those I had while entering Penn, although perhaps a bit more concrete and diversified. In fact, most of my newer interests (especially in social sciences) have come from taking out-of-major courses at Penn, so I’d highly recommend exploring your options early on!

Daria Kulakova

Russia

Degree and major area of study: Cognitive Science
What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars? If there is one thing I like about Penn, it’s the people! I made a lot of friends here, and I was always fascinated by so many talented and ambitious students around me!
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share? Penn Russian Club; Wharton Undergraduate Media and Entertainment Professional Development; Wharton Global Research and Consulting Club
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn? I plan to continue my education somewhere in Europe.

Yan Li

Ireland

Academic areas of interest: Electrical Engineering and Business Innovation (with considerable interest in Maths, Chemistry, Physics and Design)
Activities and interests: Tennis, running, violin, tinkering, Olympiad competitions, Model UN, organizing clubs/events, exploring, volunteering, and mentoring
Future plans: I have always been enthusiastic about entrepreneurship as well as environmental sustainability/renewability, cutting-edge tech, research, poverty reduction, and various other social concerns ” I aspire to one day create a start-up of my own, encompassing all of my passions and interests, to ultimately deliver a positive impact on society and the world at large.

Mohammad Oulabi

Syria

Degree and major area of study: BA in Logic Information and Computation
What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars? Being surrounded by some of the most talented and ambitious people has helped me grow in ways I could not have imagined. It was incredible to be part of one of the most diverse groups on campus. Through the Penn Word Scholars program, I’ve met friends from all around the world from the very start of my time at Penn.
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share? I served on the boards of Penn First, Penn Arab Student Society (PASS), and the International Student Advisory Board (ISAB). I was also the CEO of the Student Federal Credit Union (SFCU).
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn? After graduation, I will be joining the fintech startup scene as a Product Manager. I hope to continue on the path of entrepreneurship and one day start my own company.

Cristina Pogorevici

Romania

Degree and major area of study: Business Analytics; Entrepreneurship & Innovation
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share? Wharton Council Co-Chair; Junior-Senior Advisory Board; Wharton Ambassador; Friars Senior Honor Society; Bell Senior Honor Society; Wharton India Entrepreneurship Fellow
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn? I will be heading to Beijing, China for a year as part of the Schwarzman Scholar program. Afterwards, I will be joining Bain & Company as a Associate Consultant in NYC.

Hyacinthe Uwizera

Rwanda

Degree and major area of study: Bachelor of Science in Engineering – Computer Science
What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars? I love the community and resources PWS provided me with.
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share? I was in New Spirit of Penn gospel choir, Society for African Internationals at Penn, Benjamin Franklin Scholars, Christian Union, Penn Emerging Scholars Program. Some of the things I participated in are the Global Research and Internship program where I traveled to Australia, Penn Global Seminar where I traveled to South Africa, and a service-learning program to Argentina. I have also TA’d for an MCIT class.
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn? Honestly, it’s not that clear to me what I want to do, when, and where. I feel like the life ahead is an open book with infinite pages so when I try to think of what I want to do for the rest of my life, no option would be sufficient enough for all those pages. I am working on just thinking about a few years ahead instead of the whole adulthood thing. For now, I have a software engineering job in San Diego.

Simisola Afolayan

Nigeria

What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars?
My favorite thing about PWS is ready the opportunity to meet and engage with peers from all over the world in social settings that feel safe and are at the same time lots of fun.
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share?
At Penn, I was also involved with the International Student Advisory Board, the Society of African Internationals at Penn and NSP (The New Spirit of Penn Gospel Choir)
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn?
Doing work within the healthcare space (Healthcare consulting, management and global healthcare policy) over the course of my career.

Priya Bhirgoo

Mauritius

What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars?
Coming to Penn has broadened my horizons and I have loved being surrounded and inspired by amazing students with diverse interests and goals.
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share?
I have been involved in the Undergraduate Assembly as an Engineering Representative, in Alpha Omega Epsilon, a professional and social sorority for women in STEM, in the Rachleff Scholars Program as Vice-President of the Rachleff Scholars Society and in CBE Study Hall as a CBE Mentor and Tutor.
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn?
Improve healthcare through research, set up my own research firm and contribute to the future development of my country.

Catalina Dragoi

Romania

Academic Areas of Interest: Politics, Philosophy, Economics, International Relations, Anthropology
Activities and interests: Debating (Mostly within the European Youth Parliament), traveling, writing, reading, listening to music, going to concerts, watching movies, taking photographs, and meeting new people.
Future Plans: Ideally, I would like to work in the UN or NATO, and contribute in one way or another to getting this world as close to universal peace as possible.

Jamaal Hay

Jamaica

What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars?
I love how Penn really allowed me to explore my interests. I came in having selected Biomedical Engineering and am leaving a Computer Science major. This wouldn’t have been possible without Penn’s flexible course requirements. Penn World Scholars really made an effort to bring together students from vastly different backgrounds which I will always appreciate.
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share?
I was a part of Club Golf, Quaker Finance Group, Penn Poker Club and Wharton Investments and Trading Group.
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn?
After graduation I plan to spend a few years working at the Boston office of Microsoft. From there I may either try to delve into quatitative finance or pursue a PhD in Computer Science. No idea.

Santiago Herrera

El Salvador

What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars?
Penn is a unique, globally-oriented community. Students are really hard-working, dedicated, and smart. You get to learn something new everyday while you grow and become an improved version of yourself.
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share?
No matter the type and degree of involvement in Penn extracurricular activities, there is something for everyone. During my time at Penn, I had the opportunity to be part of Penn World Scholars, Greek Life, and pre-professional Clubs. My involvement in these groups allowed me to get a head start on figuring out my intellectual as well as professional aspirations while forming strong connections with incredibly talented individuals who are now friends.
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn?
After Penn, I am going to be working as an investment banking analyst in New York City, NY. As I am interested in working in emerging markets, I would like to exercise a career where I contribute to the promotion of economic and human development in the most vulnerable regions of the world.

Sylvia Kimwei

Kenya

What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars?
The support senior year – OPT and Career Services.
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share?
Minority in Nursing, Christian Union at Penn
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn?
To be a nurse and start a mental health hospital in Kenya. 

Marko Lamza

Croatia

What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars?
I enjoy meeting ambitious, hard working people with virtuous intentions and great skills.
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share?
Wharton Undergraduate Real Estate Club, Dean’s List (2017, 2018, 2019)
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn?
Pursue a career in innovation and impact investing.

Halil Memoglu

Turkey

Academic areas of interest: Computer Science, electrical engineering, business/entrepreneurship, computational linguistics, nanotechnology, mathematics, product design, artificial intelligence.
Activities and Interests: Basketball, soccer, reading, literature, entrepreneurship, global politics, linguistics, design, debate, visual art, fiction writing, programming, puzzles, and robotics.
Future Plans: For the most part, I am an inventor and a storyteller. In the future, I hope to go on being a better inventor and a better storyteller. I will explore what it takes to support and realize the dreams of a world.

Khizrah Naveed

Pakistan

Academic areas of interest: Chemistry and Mathematics
Activities and interests: Parliamentary debates and  public speaking,
Future plans: Continuing public speaking at Penn and to join other student clubs.

Hai Nguyen

Vietnam

Academic areas of interest: Entrepreneurship, History, Finance
Activities and interests: Travelling to see what’s happening in the world with my real eyes and then writing about it, soccer, swimming, and starting small businesses.
Future plans: I want to keep traveling to explore current problems around the world, particularly the current immigration and education problems; by my own eyes. I also want to build a business of my own, a restaurant or food shop in particular. I also want to try a career in finance or management as well. Generally, I am very open to new things.

Abdullah Noaman

Iraq

What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars?
Penn is a community of passionate and ambitious people who want to change the world. Being at Penn for four years taught me so much and allowed me to grow in many ways.
What Penn groups, clubs, organizations were you involved in, and/or what achievements would you like to share?
I founded the Alif Bet Fellowship at Penn Hillel with a friend of mine. Alif Bet is an educational program of investigating similarities between Arabic and Hebrew in an inclusive space facilitating intercultural dialogue and collaboration.
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn?
I hope to go to graduate school, eventually conduct my own research, and own many patents.

Arundhati Singh

India

What do you love about Penn and/or Penn World Scholars? What I love about Penn is that it did for me what I had always hoped an education would do: it allowed me to learn under some of the world’s foremost scholars and thinkers, and helped me discover how to live a life. And I met some cool people through PWS!
What are your plans or aspirations for your time after Penn? More philosophy, and more literature.

Adamseged Abebe

Ethiopia

Academic areas of interest: Biology, chemistry, African studies, politics, and medicine.
Activities and interests: Student government, Ethiopian/African dance, soccer, and community service
Future plans: To be a doctor, Ethiopian prime minister, fix social and economical problems, and improve the African educational system.

Muhammad Mustafa Amjad

Pakistan

Academic areas of interest: Economics, politics, and computer science.
Activities and interests: Parliamentary debates, Model United Nations, community service, entrepreneurship, and  traveling.
Future plans: I would like to contribute to the socioeconomic development of Pakistan and make a career out of my interest in technology and entrepreneurship.

Rafael Castro

El Salvador

Academic areas of interest: Computer science, cognitive science, and entrepreneurship.
Activities and interests: I am interested in technology in general, debating, public speaking, programming, and running.
Future plans: I want to start my own tech company while at Penn or afterwards.

Yiyi Chen

China

Academic areas of interest: Health & societies, economics, language, and history.
Activities and interests: Traveling, learning about different cultures, reading, volunteering, and community service.
Future plans: For now I am thinking of pursuing a career in the healthcare industry.  Regardless of which career path I choose, I hope to contribute to society in a positive way.

Paulina Destarac

Guatemala

Academic areas of interest: Physics/astrophysics, math, philosophy, and literature. 
Activities and interests: I love dancing, hiking, reading, singing, photography, and volunteering. 
Future plans: I plan to pursue a postgraduate degree in astrophysics and conduct my own research.

Andre Hamra

Brazil

Academic areas of interest: Management, entrepreneurship, finance, economics, social impact & responsibility, and philosophy.
Activities and interests: Business reading, volunteer work, social entrepreneurship, writing, tutoring, student government, and soccer.
Future plans: I want to be a world reference in the business area in which I choose to work, be it management, finance, or entrepreneurship.  In the long run, I intend to be an important benefactor of Brazil with regards to improving the life quality of people, especially through education.  Finally, I plan to leave a positive legacy for my country; generating succession, influencing people, and building something eternal.

Gary Li

Canada

Academic areas of interest: Economics, marketing, international studies, and politics.
Activities and interests: Swimming, singing, playing the clarinet, student government, volunteering in music therapy and music education, French studies, honing skills related to entrepreneurship, and of course, Netflix!
Future plans: Venturing in public policy or social enterprise, and exploring every continent across the globe.

Shadrack Lilan

Kenya

Academic areas of interest: Chemical / biomolecular engineering and economics.
Activities and interests: Soccer, field hockey, jogging, movies, hiking, random trips, community service, and cycling.
Future plans: To work across the globe.  Once I have amassed enough skills, experience, and resources, I will return to my home country (Kenya) and try my best to bring some economic change to my nation.

Trang Luu

Vietnam

Academic areas of interest: English and theatre arts.
Activities and interests: Drama, community service, reading, writing, Western riding, tutoring, and Benjamin Franklin Scholars.
Future plans: I hope to pursue a career in academia or go into publishing.

Vanessa Makuvaro

Zimbabwe

Academic areas of interest: Computer engineering, communication systems, philosophy.
Activities and interests: Baking, tennis, outdoor obstacle courses, community service, debate, alternative and folk music.
Future plans: Software engineering, entrepreneurship, and the development of educational support technologies for Zimbabwe and similar countries.

Mia Mansour

France/Lebanon

Academic areas of interest: Mechanical engineering, applied mechanics, physics, business/economics, and criminology.
Activities and interests: Serving social justice and fully engaging in my community, painting (especially with oil), Choral Arts, swimming, Model United Nations and other debate opportunities, kayaking/mountaineering/hiking/biking and outdoor activities, student government, and creative writing.
Future plans: Engaging in space exploration and the aircraft industry (while continuing to draw, sing, and research physics), contributing to women’s leadership in science and technology, bridging the gap between socially and economically diverse groups.

Santiago Pereira

Uruguay

Academic areas of interest: Business, international relations, entrepreneurship, management, politics, and media.
Activities and interests: Entertainment (TV, movies, books), event organization, Model UN, musical theatre, and writing. 
Future plans: I would eventually desire to manage my own business, but other professional interests are international politics, campaign management, and the entertainment, retail, and technological industries.

Andre Rappaccioli

Nicaragua

Academic areas of interest: Systems engineering, actuarial mathematics, computer science, and entrepreneurship.
Activities and Interests: Technology, debate, travel, entrepreneurship, social activism, politics, and student involvement.
Future plans: Create and manage a transitional consulting company that contributes to the social and economic development of Nicaragua. Eventually get involved in Nicaraguan politics.

Saku Rimali

Finland

Academic areas of interest: Engineering, physics, economics, and business.
Activities and interests: Running, sports, piano, music, hiking, traveling, and technology.
Future plans: To develop and commercialize cutting-edge technology fighting global issues.

Halima Said

Kenya

Academic areas of interest: Business and international studies. 
Activities and interests: Swimming, reading, cooking, 1950’s jazz music, and community service.
Future plans: Start a socially responsible agribusiness which will empower the small-scale farmers of sub-Saharan Africa, and become the Secretary General of the United Nations.

Shane Shearman

Trinidad & Tobago

Academic areas of interest: Engineering, math, physics, history, and political science.
Activities and interests: Music, playing steel pan (national instrument), education, soccer, and karate.
Future plans: Education, scientific research, entrepreneurship, and magnanimity. 

Elen Bianca Souza

Brazil

Academic areas of interest: Business, engineering, and language. 
Activities and interests: Sports (particularly volleyball and soccer), community service, and traveling.
Future plans: Through social entrepreneurship, promote equality and improve people’s lives in Brazil and worldwide.

Sandra Urusaro

Rwanda

Academic areas of interest:  Global health, Oncology, Medicine, Nursing, Research, Languages and culture, Health Leadership, Health administration.
Activities and interests: Working with the international community, volunteering or being hands on in clinical settings, reading, cooking, traveling, community service and leadership
Future plans: I am interested in being a clinicians in low-middle income settings, bridging the gap between leadership in healthcare and delivery of care to improve outcomes, translating skills learned to settings with very limited resources such as Rwanda. Regardless of where, I want to create a positive impact in healthcare. 

Orhan Efe Yavuz

Turkey

Academic areas of interest: Physics, aerospace engineering, astrophysics, math, quantum physics, and computer science.
Activities and interests: Co-founder at a youth astronomy society in Turkey, stargazing, professional astronomy observation research, snooker, robotics, computational physics.
Future plans: Working as a rocket scientist/aerospace engineer at a space exploration company/organization to make mankind a multi planetary species. Start a research institute for astrophysics, robotics, and synthetic biology.